After extending crucial support to the Centre on the FDI in retail issue, DMK
today sought to cement its ties with UPA with its chief M Karunanidhi saying the
nation "looks upto" to UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi to provide a "secular and
stable" government.

"As Chairperson of UPA, you have been crossing a number of roadblocks tactfully
and facing many hurdles successfully. As it is often said, obstacles are
stepping stones to greater success", Karunandhi said in a message to Gandhi who
will turn 67 tomorrow.

The nation "looks up to you only at this critical phase" to provide a secular
and stable government at the Centre, he said adding that "despite certain
impediments, the achievements of UPA government have been quite impressive".

"The poor and middle classes of people of this country certainly realize your
abiding interest in their livelihood and welfare", Karunanidhi said in the
message.

DMK leaders led by party's Parliamentary Party leader T R Baalu met Gandhi at
her residence in Delhi and presented bouquets to her.

Acknowledging that she had received Karunanidhi's greetings, Gandhi thanked the
DMK leader, Baalu said.